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4.5
186 votes

National Museum of African Art

950 Independence Ave SW, Washington, District of Columbia 20560 USA

Free
Free to Visit
Closed Now
Opens Thu 10a
  • Independent
  • Credit Cards
    Accepted
  • Wheelchair
    Accessible
  • Public
    Restrooms
  • Outdoor
    Seating
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“from antiquity to present”

The National Museum of African Art (NMAfA) began as a private educational institution in 1964 to promote cross-cultural understanding in the social sciences and arts. Founded by Warren M. Robbins, a former U.S. Foreign Service officer, it was known as the Museum of African Art and located on Capitol Hill in a townhouse that had been the home of Frederick Douglass, the African American abolitionist and statesman. In August 1979, by enactment of Public Law 95-414, the museum became part of the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum and research complex dedicated to the increase and diffusion of knowledge. The museum, formally renamed the National Museum of African Art in 1981, opened to the public in a new facility on the National Mall in 1987. Initially focused on the traditional arts of sub-Saharan Africa, NMAfA broadened its collecting scope and programs to include both modern and contemporary artworks, distinguishing itself as the first museum in the United States to include a sustained focus on modern and contemporary African art in its mission. Through its collections research facilities, state-of-the-art conservation lab, groundbreaking exhibitions, educational outreach and public programs, the museum has expanded the parameters of the field of African art history and presented to the public a rich diversity of artistic traditions from throughout continent. The museum’s programs target audiences of all ages and offer a multifaceted view of Africa’s artistic traditions by incorporating cutting edge, contemporary and urban-focused performances and programs. Artist talks, films and lectures draw African art enthusiasts, area students, artists and collectors as well as individuals from the immigrant and expatriate communities. Let’s Read about Africa introduces children to current and classical literature about Africa; Studio Africa creates a comprehensive learning environment for DC-public schoolchildren by exploring African art and cultures through monthly workshops and hands-on activities; and the culinary program offers cooking demonstrations and tasting events that take inspiration from the museum’s exhibition program. Warren Robbins’ inaugural vision—to teach visitors how to look at African art in the interest of promoting cross-cultural communication—remains at the heart of the National Museum of African Art’s mission today. Indeed, the museum will remain relevant to its diverse audiences and African constituents as it continues to promote and represent the rich artistic practices of Africa.

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Reviewed by
Emily Gill

  • Road Warrior
  • 53 Reviews
  • 7 Helpful
April 24, 2018
Rated 5.0

This was hands-down my favorite part of my trip to Washington D.C. Beautiful artwork, beautiful building. A small to medium size museum which can be a nice break from the larger more crowded museums.

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Reviewed by
reigningvictory

  • 3 Reviews
  • 3 Helpful
April 11, 2016
Rated 5.0

Beautiful pieces of art and artifacts. It won't take long to get through this museum.

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National Museum of African Art

950 Independence Ave SW
Washington, District of Columbia
20560 USA
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Hours

Closed Now
  • Sun - Sat: 10:00 am - 5:30 pm

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    Wheelchair Accessible
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